Available to York residents only - see details of York Residents' Festival

York Archaeology and Explore York Libraries and Archives

Between 2021 and 2022 archaeologists uncovered a rubbish dump associated with Clifton Hospital, which opened in 1847 as the North Riding Lunatic Asylum. Come along to see a selection of finds providing a rare insight into the everyday lives of patients and staff at a mental health institution in the past.

For one day only, there will be a supporting exhibition of archives highlighting changing attitudes to mental health in the city. This exhibition will focus on mental health records held at York Explore, which include the archives of York Corporation and the York Poor Law Union.

Content warning: this exhibition contains historical terms that are offensive, as well as details of the historic treatment of mental illness.

Archive exhibition: one day only, Saturday 10am till 4pm.

Archaeology display: accessible during library opening hours until 23^rd February.